Jacob "Jake" Cortez

McAllen ~ Jake Cortez, 44, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, September 1, 2021. He was born on Sunday, December 12, 1976 in Weslaco Texas, the son of Guadalupe and Maria (Fraire) Cortez. He is preceded in death by his father and grandfather: Domingo Cortez.

One of five siblings born in the South Texas town of Weslaco, this Rocking-Gypsy Blues player started playing at 3 years of age. Influenced and taught by his father's Mexican-Folk style, Jake soon acquired a love and passion for classical music. His father always played for fun and would bring his family together to play by passing around the guitar. Jake studied classical, jazz, and opera in college, while his fingers were unleashing burning "licks" yearning to go out and perform for crowds. Jake had a great respect for his influences like his Dad, Johnny Cash, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and the Eagles were among a few; however Jake applied his own interpretation of their music into his own style. Jake was a resident of McAllen working as a full time musician, studio guitarist and private instructor. 

To his family, Jake was first a Musician, he played guitar, sang and wrote music. He also studied and learned about the bible keeping in touch with this Christian Faith. He was very handy and enjoyed working on motorcycles, cars, welding and building things. He will be greatly missed by all those whose lives he touched. 

He is survived by his mother Maria Luisa Fraire; three brothers: Juan Cortez (Melissa) of Weslaco, Miguel Cortez of Houston and Ray Cortez of Houston; sister: Holly Powell (Scott) of Weslaco; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm Saturday, September 4, 2021 at Rivera Funeral Home, 1901 Pecan Blvd. in McAllen. 

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